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Events for June 6, 2025

First Friday is celebrated on the first Friday of each month throughout Downtown Raleigh to showcase the best of our city's creative community. Thousands venture downtown to visit art galleries & studios open late to host exhibits, artist talks, and creative activities. Retailers and restaurants also get in on the fun with live music, vendor markets, specials/discounts, and more. There's something for everyone each First Friday. 

Create your own First Friday itinerary by selecting the hearts for events and experiences you don't want to miss. Receive a custom map and itinerary to guide your First Friday evening!

Arts Access Gallery
444 S Blount St - Moore Square District
Arts Access Gallery - Kaleidoscope Exhibition
6pm - 9pm

"Kaleidoscope" explores the diverse and multifaceted expressions of autistic artists, each piece offering a glimpse into their distinct worlds. From vivid paintings and mixed media work to a captivating Origami tessellation, each piece is a testament to the artists' exceptional ability to perceive and interpret the world around them, transforming everyday experiences into extraordinary visual narratives.

CAM Raleigh (Contemporary Art Museum)
409 W Martin St - Warehouse District District
First Friday at CAM
6pm - 9pm

Join us for free at CAM Raleigh for fresh art, good tunes, and great vibes! We always have something new to explore.

Designed For Joy
517 W Cabarrus St - Warehouse District District
Make & Take a Raleigh Acorn Bell at Designed For Joy

Celebrate Raleigh's First Friday with a unique make-and-take event! Drop-in anytime between 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Designed For Joy studio in downtown Raleigh to create your very own Raleigh Acorn Bell—a charming keepsake that symbolizes our "City of Oaks."

Le Dive
14 W Martin St - Fayetteville Street District
First Friday Flashes at Le Dive with Old Ghosts Tattoo
5pm - 10pm

Join Le Dive and Old Ghosts Tattoo for a unique experience every First Friday in Raleigh! Le Dive, teams up with Old Ghosts Tattoo for an exciting night of flash tattoos, good vibes, drinks and food and creative energy!

The Merchant
126 S Salisbury St. - Fayetteville Street District
First Friday Ladies Night at The Merchant

Join us every First Friday of the Month for a fun-filled Ladies Night at The Merchant! Gather your friends and unwind with a special evening designed just for you. Enjoy exclusive access to our Ladies Night Menu, featuring refreshing and playful cocktails in every shade of pink, from bubbly spritzers to fruity concoctions. Special offers, upbeat music, and an unforgettable vibe make it a night you won't want to miss! Come relax, mingle, and enjoy a glamorous night with the best company in town!

Origami Styling
111 E Hargett St - Moore Square District
After Dark Sip ‘n Shop
6pm - 8pm

We’re open late for First Friday! Come shop vintage clothing, accessories, decor & furniture until 8pm. Enjoy a complimentary beverage & treats while you browse.

Parcero Studio
120 S Wilmington St, # 120 - Fayetteville Street District
Fiber Friends Night! Unwind - Connect - Create
5pm - 7pm

Bring your own project or start a new one at the studio. This is a casual, no pressure gathering for crafters of all levels.